Lies always come first, dragging fools along by their irreparable vulgarity. Truth always lags last, limping along on the arm of time.

Do not show your wounded finger for everything will knock up against it.

A man of honour should never forget what he is because he sees what others are.

Never participate in the secrets of those above you; you think you share the fruit, and you share the stones - the confidence of a prince is not a grant, but a tax

When a man's knowledge is deep, he speaks well of an enemy. Instead of seeking revenge, he extends unexpected generosity. He turns insult into humor, ... and astonishes his adversary who finds no reason not to trust him.

Advice is sometimes transmitted more successfully through a joke than grave teaching.

There is no wilderness like a life without friends.